Am I the only one that thinks it might be in poor taste to still advertise Essentials as the what to buy if you're new to D&D when a new version is coming in a year?

Not really... My intro to D&D was with some random really late 2E boxed set called the "Adventure Set" (a rather decent intro to the game, THAC0 aside) that nobody ever seems to have heard of. A few months after I bought it, I got the newly released first print run 3E PHB. I think both products were even printed the same year (with that 25th anniversary logo). The edition whiplash didn't bug me at all. Actually, in my ignorance I just thought that the 'real' rules were vastly superior to the 'fake' rules from the box set.

I own it. It is very basic 2nd edition AD&D (even though is says its just D&D). Comes with pre-made PCs, basic adventure and some handouts. Is there anything in particular you want to know? Trust me, you aren't missing out on anything.

I own it. It is very basic 2nd edition AD&D (even though is says its just D&D). Comes with pre-made PCs, basic adventure and some handouts. Is there anything in particular you want to know? Trust me, you aren't missing out on anything.

Nothing at all. Its all 2nd edition rules: THAC0, roll above a # for Saving Throws (it only gives 1 number though). Some of the rules are simplified, but its all AD&D. I even have a coupon that gives me 10% off for the black boarder PHB & DMG when I to to store.wizards.com and use the code world "halfling." Sadly, the offer ended 12/31/99.